5 different ways to train and get in shape

There’s more to a good workout routine than just hitting the gym and hoping for the best. To achieve your fitness goals and get in shape, first, consider your fitness goals and what you are looking to achieve. This will help you to decide which form of training will best suit you.

Different types of training exist for different purposes, to increase everything from strength to flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular health. A well-rounded workout routine is one that considers and integrates all aspects of a healthy physical body.

Whether you’re a seasoned trainer who is doing the same workout every week or just made yourself a promise to get fit, here are 5 different ways to train and get in shape.

1. Cardiovascular training

Cardio exercise is a catch-all term for any type of training that elevates your heart rate, but can be divided into two different types: aerobic (low-intensity) and anaerobic (high-intensity). Aerobic cardio is all about keeping a steady pace and intensity for your whole workout, while anaerobic cardio works your heart extremely hard at elevated rates.

If you’re usually one to go for a run, jog, or swim, try a high-intensity cardio workout like circuit training or sprinting, and if you’re used to anaerobic workouts, try switching to lower intensity cardio training for a change.

2. Training fasted

Hardcore gym junkies who have a well-balanced diet can try training fasted to shake up their routine and burn some extra fat. Australian gym Fitstop defines training fasted as working out without having consumed anything of any significant caloric value beforehand.

The idea behind this is to train your body to use its stored up glycogen (energy) and burn more fat in the process. Don’t try training fasted unless you feel strong enough to do so, as it relies on your body using its stored energy and can leave you feeling drained.

3. Resistance training

Resistance training (also known as strength training) is all about increasing your muscular capacity by exercising it against an external source of resistance. This is the best way for people who are pressed for time to build a seriously epic set of muscles or improve their lifting capacity. According to Forbes, it might also help you live longer.

Resistance training can be done using free weights like dumbbells or barbells, medicine balls, and weight machines, as well as resistance bands or even your own body. Squats, push-ups, and chin-ups are all a form of resistance training that uses the body as an external force.

4. Circuit training

If you want a full body workout that doesn’t require spending hours at the gym, circuit training will give you the most bang for your buck. With a focus on building muscular endurance and strength while keeping your heart pumping at a high rate, circuit training combines aerobic exercise with strength building exercises.

These high-intensity workouts leave little room for breaks but make the best choice for weight loss and improving your overall fitness.

5. Flexibility training

Flexibility training has been shown to help with losing weight. Yoga is just one form of flexible training, but it can be anything from dynamic and static stretches to corrective exercises. That’s why it is important to mix up your weekly workout routine with different types of training is good for your body as well as your mind.

With that being said, don’t underestimate the importance of variety in fitness. Physically you’ll be ticking all of the boxes by exercising your heart, muscles, and lungs, but mentally you’ll also be refreshing your routine to keep things exciting and different.